DUBAI // The star-studded AC Milan squad will return to Dubai for a winter training camp at the end of the month and will play Al Ahli in the inaugural Emirates Challenge Cup on January 2 2011.
The Emirates Challenge Cup will take place under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the Crown Prince of Dubai.
The seven-time European champions Milan, will arrive in Dubai on December 28 and will conduct several training sessions that will be open to the public — giving fans a chance to see the likes of Ronaldinho and Robinho up close.
“The Emirates Challenge Cup with AC Milan and Al Ahli is set to be an action packed event and is certain to draw in football fans from across the UAE,” said Mohammed Mattar, the Emirates’ Divisional Senior vice-president, Airport Services.
“Fans of AC Milan will benefit from the rare opportunity of being able to watch the team train at Al Ahli stadium, adding even further excitement to the team’s visit.
“AC Milan play fast paced football that will keep fans entertained and Al Ahli on their toes and I wish both teams the best of luck.”
Al Ahli face Milan with the added challenge of Italian international defender, Fabio Cannavaro, who led the national side to victory at the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
“AC Milan vs Al Ahli is certainly an exciting prospect and we are so looking forward to welcoming some of the greatest names in football to Dubai later this month and hosting them for their winter training," said Ahmed Khalifa Hammad, the CEO of Al Ahli Club.
"The players at Al Ahli are all eager to get out there to take on the AC Milan team."
Tickets details to watch AC Milan vs Al Ahli at the Emirates Challenge Cup on January 2 will be announced next week. The match will be played at Al Ahli Stadium, Dubai and kicks off at 8pm.